In the After on RMC, Daniel Riolo recently analyzed the situation of key players at Olympique de Marseille (OM), with a particular focus on Chancel Mbemba and Derek Cornélius. The journalist estimated that the Congolese central defender, who could leave the Marseille club during the January winter transfer window, no longer enters into the game of possibilities in central defense.
The future of Chancel Mbemba at OM could be settled in January. If the central defender has been one of the pillars of the Marseille defense in recent seasons, he was pushed out last summer. Daniel Riolo believes that a departure in January could be considered. “Unlike Mbemba, Kolo Muani does not want to leave in January”, Riolo explained. This potential departure, which could take place as early as the January 2025 transfer window, will put additional pressure on the Marseille management, who will have to find a quality replacement in defense.
Andreas Cornelius: should we give him time?
At the same time, Riolo believes that time must be given to recruit Derek Cornélius, who arrived this summer at OM from Malmö FF. The Canadian defender has not yet shown his full potential and was injured. “Cornelius comes to a team where the defense leaves something to be desired. This complicates his role in attack, but it is important to give him time”Riolo said. The journalist insisted on the fact that OM must persist with the Canadian player. “Cornelius needs to regain his confidence and work on his physique. Coach Roberto De Zerbi must give him playing time so that he can truly express his potential. »
The future of OM: crucial decisions to make
With a winter transfer window looming, Olympique de Marseille finds itself at a turning point. The announced departure of Mbemba and the recurring defensive problems. Will the club recruit for this central defender position? Brassier, Cornelius and Balerdi have not yet been convincing, just as Kondogbia tried at this position. The young Meité has been left out of the rotation for the moment.
In summary, OM must make crucial decisions during the January 2025 transfer window. The departure of Mbemba and the adaptation of Cornélius will be at the heart of the concerns of coach Roberto De Zerbi and the Marseille management.
